Low range flashing

[splitshift]

guys I know there is already a post about this, I just can't find it now !!!!
I have a high mile, 140k ml 350, 3.7 petrol. 53 plate. On start up the low range light flashes several times. Now according to the ( mythical ) original post this is indicative of a faulty motor, easily replaced under neath, but my question is will it cause damage as it is? I do no off road, and don't predict the need for it. That doesn't mean I will just leave it indefinitely, just will it wreck my box!!!!!?
Scott

 

[Steve@Avantgarde]

It shouldn't do, it just means that the low range won't work should you need it to lock on a really slippery surface.

Check the low range hasn't been activated. There is a way to check, I think you hold the button in for 5 seconds with the ignition at pos 2, check your manual to be sure.

 

[splitshift]

Thank you !! Will check, there were children in it, what does this do ? Poke! I'll let you know !!

 

[oigle]

Those motors are usually very reliable. They are grease filled and can be cleaned and refilled with new grease.
There is also a sensor that "reads" whether the gears are in low or high range. This sensor is adjustable. If it gets out of whack, the system thinks the gear is not properly engaged and will flash the light (when in high range on startup). Get the adjustment looked at.
If you make an attempt to engage low range in neutral when box is hot, it may engage. If so, when you once again press the button, it may properly engage high range again and the light may not flash on the next restart until the out of adjustment sensor once again thinks it is wrong - that can take a few days or restarts. Just have a play with it before spending any real money.

Ian.

 

[splitshift]

Everyone!!! No money spent at all !! After trawling all the relevant and irrelevant posts, I did the low range engaging , all good, disengaged properly too !! Light off. No flashing!!!! Damned kids at only going in the back from now !!!!
Thank you to all !!! I remember back in the pre internet days, this would have cost hours labour and no doubt scratching heads to get fixed !!!thank you !

 

[Steve@Avantgarde]

Glad its sorted. Usually a case of resetting it.

 

[oigle]

If it comes back again, and it might, remember there is an adjustment of the sensor. I have been down the same road....